2009 BMW X3 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW X3 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 166 kg more than 2012 BMW 320.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW 320 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 57 L |
